We are thrilled to announce submissions are now open for the fourth year of our groundbreaking creative workshop: Speak up, Speak Out: Cystinosis and Me 2025!
WE’RE BACK!
Speak Up, Speak Out: Cystinosis and Me! is back, in partnership with Believe Limited and the Cystinosis Research Network! This transformative, spoken-word self-advocacy workshop for young people living with cystinosis will take place July 10-12, 2025 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, alongside the Cystinosis Research Network's Family Conference (July 11-13, 2025).
Aimed at individuals ages 13-22, this unique workshop empowers participants to share their personal stories through creative expression. Over two dynamic days, attendees will tap into the healing power of art, theater, writing, and performance to build confidence, develop self-advocacy skills, and foster connections within the cystinosis community. The experience will culminate in an unforgettable live performance during the conference.
IMPACT
This community experience will feature:
Written and spoken word technique education ...
Theatrical and performance training ...
Relaxation, meditation and breathing exercises ...
A final performance during CRN's Family Conference ...
And so much more!
EVERYONE IS WELCOME
Selected participants with cystinosis will collaborate with Believe Limited's team of storytelling experts to explore and develop self-expression through both writing and spoken word. No prior writing or performance experience is required! We’re seeking community members who are eager to learn and grow in self-expression.
Participants with cystinosis may invite a sibling (ages 13-22) living in the same household to attend the Speak Up, Speak Out program alongside them. While siblings are welcome, priority participation is given to those with cystinosis.
Participants are also encouraged to bring a chaperone or caregiver to assist with travel. A chaperone must be 18 or older and reside in the same household as the participant (U.S. residents only).
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Hanna at hanna@believeltd.com, or Ed at ed@believeltd.com